EK used to do JFK via HAM, but I agree, from what i heard no bases in Europe, dont need anyway, and economy development isnt happening there right now. I believe they envision to connect other markets, eg Africa and South America with Asia specially China and India those are badly explored and high potencial markets, not to forget Russia, although EK hasnt tapped that source entirely yet. I think what is possible is that EK starts taking stakes in companies abroad to secure them as feeders as they are not willing to join any alliance.